The biggest challenge for landlords right now is the new government legislation around EPC ratings. However, with the right financial help and guidance, you can make sure your rental properties are in-line with new standards by retrofitting, writes Zoe Lacey from Mortgage Advice Bureau.
New EPC rules
For the government to achieve their net zero target by 2050, landlords have until 2030 to ensure their rental properties have a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of C. This new regulation aims to reduce carbon emissions and fuel poverty, creating more comfortable and sustainable living spaces for tenants.
Let’s take a closer look at how retrofitting your property can help reduce its EPC rating.
Retrofitting tips
In short, retrofitting is the process of making substantial modifications to an existing property, usually to improve its eco-friendliness.
Here are some changes you could make to improve your property’s energy efficiency:
Insulation
Loft insulation: This is often a cost-effective starting point, reducing heat loss through the roof.
Cavity wall insulation: Filling the gaps between the walls with insulating material significantly improves energy efficiency.
Floor insulation: Insulating under floors, especially in older properties, can reduce heat loss.
Heating systems
Replacing old boilers: Upgrading to more efficient boilers, such as condensing boilers, can significantly reduce energy consumption.
Installing smart thermostats: These allow for better control of heating, optimising energy use and potentially reducing bills.
Considering renewable energy sources: Options like solar panels or air source heat pumps can further enhance energy efficiency and reduce reliance on traditional heating methods.
Windows and doors
Replacing single-glazed windows: Upgrading to double or triple-glazed windows significantly improves insulation.
Installing energy-efficient doors: Ensuring doors are well-insulated and draught-proof can help to reduce heat loss.
Lighting
Switching to LED lighting: LED bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, resulting in lower energy bills.
Renewable energy sources
Solar panels: Installing solar panels can generate renewable energy, reducing reliance on the grid and potentially lowering energy costs.
Air source heat pumps: These can provide both heating and cooling, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional heating systems.
Financing the retrofit
To meet the UK’s net zero target by 2050, it’s estimated that around 340,000 rental homes will need to improve their EPC rating each year to achieve a minimum rating of C.1 There’s also clear tenant appetite for landlords to improve the sustainability of their buy-to-let properties. In fact, a recent survey by Handelsbanken found that over 50% of tenants have requested properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C or above (rising to 88% in London).2
The financial implications of retrofitting a property is undoubtedly a major concern, especially for those with a smaller portfolio and less cash reserves. Fortunately, there are means for landlords to fund these improvements – including MAB’s very own Resilient Homes proposition. This enables customers to quickly and easily assess potential cost savings (including any government grants they may be eligible for) via built-in financial advice, with retrofitting solutions offered by credible suppliers.
The importance of expert advice
You may also want to consider whether a green mortgage may be suitable. This offers incentives such as a more competitive interest rate, or cashback, to those buying an energy efficient property (or who have the intention of retrofitting).
This is where speaking to a mortgage adviser is worth its weight in gold. With an in-depth understanding of the buy-to-let market (including green mortgages) and access to a wide range of lenders, you’ll be able to make informed decisions around how you finance your rental property.